Inspired to Run

This week, the Commonwealth Games will be dominating the sporting media, and lets hope it brings some inspiration with it. Being inspired to run might just change your life, running can offer enormous health and wellbeing benefits for the masses. It has some fantastic attributes in that it is free, can be done anytime, anywhere and requires nothing more than a decent pair of shoes. So, why doesn’t everyone run?

Injury can be a real de-motivator, as can the experience of the first couple of runs not resembling what Mo Farah can achieve. Start slow, consistency, progressive, is how running should be done at first, and it should be fun.

Top tips for starting running and reducing the risk of injury.

Get a good pair of running shoes. How a running shoe fits and feels is the most important factor. Adequate cushioning, support and sometimes a little advice from a podiatrist or specialist running retailer can make sure you’re off to a great start.

Don’t be over ambitious. Be realistic about where you are starting. If you are carrying a little extra, maybe starting with some brisk walks is more appropriate, you will get the cardiovascular benefits, enjoy the great outdoors and build a routine that will serve you well.

Its running, not a race, at least not yet. The slower you run, the lower your risk of injury. Allow yourself a few months of very easy jogging to allow your body to adapt before you try any faster runs.

Take care of yourself. Eat right, rest when tired, get adequate sleep, stretch regularly. Your body will thank you for it.

Rest. You only get fitter when you are resting. Rest should always follow work, that is when the body recovers and increases its ability to run.

If you get an injury see a physio or podiatrist (if its related to your feet or gait) as soon as possible, early interventions have favourable outcomes.

Above all, be inspired, enjoying movement in any form if its running, cycling, dancing or gardening can enrich life like nothing else.